The California Report

Porter Ranch Gas Leak Spurs Legislation to Avert Future DisastersCalifornia state senators have proposed a set of laws to address the ongoing, massive natural gas leak near Porter Ranch in northeast Los Angeles. The bills include proposals to require annual inspections of natural gas storage facilities in California, and mandate that SoCalGas pay for damages with utility profits.

New Law Mandates Sex Ed in California ClassroomsA new law in effect this year now requires all California public school students to take sex education beginning in seventh grade. For years, sex ed has been optional. But beginning this year, parents who don't want their kids to learn about body image, contraception and HIV prevention will have to opt-out in writing.

As El Nino-Fueled Rains Fall, L.A. Homeless Turn to Alternate SheltersWith heavy winter storms beginning to roll through California, communities are scrambling to keep the homeless dry. Los Angeles County has opened more than half a dozen temporary winter shelters -- but many people would rather stay on the street. Now there's a push to offer alternative refuge.